DE102019107718A1 - Switching a communication mode based on a receiver preference - Google Patents

Abstract

For switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver, methods, apparatus and systems are disclosed. An apparatus includes a processor and a memory storing code executable by the processor. Here, the processor determines that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication channel and receives a communication channel preference of the recipient. In addition, the processor prompts the user to switch to a second communication channel in response to the first communication channel not corresponding to the communication channel preference.

Description

FIELD

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to electronic communications, and more particularly relates to switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication recipient.

BACKGROUND

Certain digital messages are likely to be annoying in some user contexts and / or are ignored by recipients.

SHORT SUMMARY

An apparatus for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver is disclosed. A method and computer program product also perform the functions of the device.

An apparatus for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver includes a processor and a memory storing code executable by the processor. The processor determines that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication channel and receives a communication channel preference of the recipient. In addition, the processor prompts the user to switch to a second communication channel in response to the first communication channel not corresponding to the communication channel preference.

In certain embodiments, the processor allows communication over the first communication channel in response to the first communication channel corresponding to the communication channel preference. In some embodiments, the communication channel preference of the recipient is based on an activity context of the recipient. In further embodiments, the communication channel preference of the recipient may be based on an identity of the user.

In some embodiments, determining that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication channel includes the processor identifying an open communication application and identifying a channel type used by the communication application. In various embodiments, the channel type may be one of: a voice call, video call, text message, short message service ("SMS") message, multimedia message service message ("MMS"), instant message ("IM"), voice recording, and video recording ,

In certain embodiments, prompting the user to switch to the second communication channel includes the processor identifying an available communication application using the second communication channel. The second communication channel corresponds to the communication channel preference. In such embodiments, prompting the user to switch to the second communication channel also includes the processor identifying notification of the user about the communication channel preference and providing a connection to the available communication application.

In some embodiments, the processor converts a first communication made using the first communication channel to a second communication using the second communication channel in response to the first communication channel not corresponding to the communication channel preference. In addition, the processor sends the second communication to the user. Here, the transformation may include converting speech to text or converting text to speech. In certain embodiments, receiving the communication channel preference of the recipient includes one or more of: receiving the communication channel preference from a server, receiving the communication channel preference from a device of the recipient, and retrieving the communication channel preference from the memory.

A method for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver includes determining, by using a processor, that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication mode. The method includes receiving a communication mode preference of the recipient. The method includes prompting the user, e.g. by a user device, to switch communication modes in response to the first communication mode not corresponding to the communication mode preference.

In certain embodiments, determining that a user initiates communication with a recipient through a first communication mode includes identifying an open communication application and identifying a communication type used by the communication application. Here the communication type can be a voice call, video call, a text message, a Short message service ("SMS") message, a multimedia message service message ("MMS"), an instant message ("IM"), a voice recording or a video recording.

In some embodiments, the method further includes allowing communication over the first communication mode in response to the first communication mode corresponding to the one or more communication mode preferences. In such embodiments, prompting the user to switch communication modes may include identifying one or more preferred communication types from the communication mode preference of the recipient and determining whether a communication type of the first communication mode corresponds to the one or more preferred communication types. In addition, prompting the user to toggle communication modes includes prompting the user for a highest priority of the one or more preferred communication types in response to the first type of communication not corresponding to the one or more preferred types of communication.

In certain embodiments, prompting the user to toggle communication modes in response to the first communication mode not corresponding to the communication mode preference includes identifying an available communication application that corresponds to the communication mode preference. In such embodiments, prompting the user to toggle communication modes may include notifying the user of the communication mode preference and providing a connection to the available communication application. In one embodiment, the communication mode preference of the recipient is based on an activity context of the recipient.

In some embodiments, the method also includes converting a first communication made using the first communication mode to a second communication using a preferred communication mode and transmitting the second communication to the user. In such embodiments, converting includes one of: converting speech to text and converting text to speech. In certain embodiments, receiving the communication mode preference of the recipient includes: receiving the communication mode preference from a server, receiving the communication mode preference from a device of the recipient, and retrieving the communication mode preference from a memory of the user equipment.

A system for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver includes a transmitter device that initiates communication with a receiver and a receiver device that corresponds to the receiver. Here, the receiving device generates a communication preference. In addition, the transmitter device determines that a user initiates communication with the receiver through a first communication medium and notifies the user of the communication preference in response to the first communication medium not meeting the communication preference.

In certain embodiments, the transmitter device transmits a first communication through the first communication medium in response to a first communication medium meeting the communication preference. In such embodiments, the communication preference is based on one or more of: an activity of the recipient, a location of the recipient, a time of day, a website visited by the receiver, and an active application of the receiving device. In some embodiments, the transmitter device converts a first communication made using the first communication medium into a second communication using a second communication medium in response to the first communication medium not meeting the communication preference.

In certain embodiments, notifying the user of the communication preference of the transmitter device includes identifying a first type of media of the first communication medium and one or more preferred media types from the communication preference and determining whether the first media type corresponds to the one or more preferred media types. In such embodiments, the transmitter device completes communication over the first medium in response to the first type of media becoming one

list of figures

• 1 ein schematisches Blockdiagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform eines System zum Umschalten eines Kommunikationsmodus basierend auf der Präferenz des Kommunikationsempfängers illustriert;
• 2 ein schematisches Blockdiagramm ist, das eine andere Ausführungsform eines Systems zum Umschalten eines Kommunikationsmodus basierend auf der Präferenz des Kommunikationsempfängers illustriert;
• 3A ein schematisches Blockdiagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform einer Vorrichtung zum Umschalten eines Kommunikationsmodus basierend auf der Präferenz des Kommunikationsempfängers illustriert;
• 3B ein schematisches Blockdiagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform einer Kanalsteuerung zum Umschalten eines Kommunikationsmodus basierend auf der Präferenz des Kommunikationsempfängers illustriert;
• 4A ein Diagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform einer Datenstruktur, die Kommunikationspräferenzinformationen speichert, illustriert;
• 4B ein Diagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform einer Empfängergerät, das einen Aktivitätskontext bestimmt, illustriert ;
• 5A ein Diagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform eines Sendergeräts illustriert, das den Benutzer über eine Kommunikationspräferenz eines Empfängers in Erwiderung darauf benachrichtigt, dass ein erster Kommunikationsmodus nicht dem bevorzugten Kommunikationsmodus des Empfängers entspricht;
• 5B ein Diagramm ist, das eine andere Ausführungsform eines Sendergeräts illustriert, das den Benutzer über eine Kommunikationspräferenz eines Empfängers in Erwiderung darauf benachrichtigt, dass ein erster Kommunikationsmodus nicht dem bevorzugten Kommunikationsmodus des Empfängers entspricht;
• 6 ein Flussdiagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform eines Verfahrens zum Umschalten eines Kommunikationsmodus basierend auf der Präferenz des Kommunikationsempfängers illustriert;
• 7 ein Flussdiagramm ist, das eine Ausführungsform eines Verfahrens zum Bestimmen eines Aktivitätskontext illustriert; und
• 8 ein Flussdiagramm ist, das eine andere Ausführungsform eines Verfahren zum Umschalten eines Kommunikationsmodus basierend auf der Präferenz des Kommunikationsempfängers illustriert.

A more detailed description of the embodiments briefly described above will be made by reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. With the understanding that these drawings illustrate only a few embodiments and are therefore not to be understood as limiting the subject matter, the embodiments are described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

• 1 Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a communication mode switching system based on the preference of the communication receiver;
• 2 Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram illustrating another embodiment of a communication mode switching system based on the preference of the communication receiver;
• 3A Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a communication mode switching device based on the preference of the communication receiver;
• 3B Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a channel controller for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver;
• 4A Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a data structure storing communication preference information;
• 4B Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a receiver device that determines an activity context;
• 5A 12 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a transmitter device that notifies the user of a communication preference of a receiver in response to a first communication mode not corresponding to the preferred communication mode of the receiver;
• 5B 12 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a transmitter device that notifies the user of a communication preference of a receiver in response to a first communication mode not corresponding to the preferred communication mode of the receiver;
• 6 Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method of switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver;
• 7 Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a method for determining an activity context; and
• 8th Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of a method for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, aspects of the embodiments may be embodied in a system, method, or program product. Accordingly, embodiments may take the form of a complete hardware embodiment, a complete software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects, all of which are generally referred to herein as "circuitry , "Module" or "system". Furthermore, embodiments may take the form of a program product that may be embodied in one or more computer-readable storage devices storing machine-readable code, computer-readable code, and / or program code, hereinafter referred to as code. The storage devices may be tangible, non-transient and / or non-transmitting. The storage devices may not contain signals. In a particular embodiment, the storage devices use only signals to access code.

Many of the functional units described in this specification have been termed modules to emphasize their independence of implementation. For example, a module may be implemented as a hardware circuit comprising custom VLSI circuits or gate arrays, commercial semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. A module may also be implemented in programmable hardware devices, such as field programmable gate array, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices, or the like.

Modules may also be implemented in code and / or software for execution by various processors. For example, an identified module of code may include one or more physical or logical blocks of executable code that may be organized, for example, as an object, procedure, or function. Nonetheless, the executable files of an identified module do not have to be physically located together, but they may contain non-uniform instructions stored in different locations which, when logically linked, contain the modules and achieve the stated purpose for the module.

In fact, a module of code may be a single instruction or many instructions, and may even be distributed over many different code segments, among different programs, and over many different storage devices. In Likewise, operational data illustrated herein may be identified within modules and may be executed in any convenient form and organized within any appropriate type of data structure. The operational data may be collected as a single amount of data or may be distributed over various locations, including various computer-readable storage devices. When a module or parts of a module are implemented in software, the software parts are stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices.

Any combination of one or more computer-readable media may be used. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium may be a storage device that stores the code. The storage device may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic storage device, magnetic storage device, optical storage device, electromagnetic storage device, infrared storage device, holographic storage device, micromechanical storage device or semiconductor system, device, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the storage device would include the following: an electrical connection comprising one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), an erasable read only memory (EPROM or flash memory), a portable compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be a tangible medium containing or storing a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

Code for performing operations for embodiments may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object-oriented programming language such as Python, Ruby, Java, Smalltalk, C ++, or the like conventional procedural programming languages such as the "C". Programming language or the like and / or machine language, such as assembly language. The code may run entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer or completely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet service provider ).

Reference in this specification to "the one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or similar language means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the occurrence of all phrases "in one embodiment" or "in one embodiment" and similar language in this description may refer to the same embodiment but need not, but means "one or more but not all embodiments," if not expressly specified otherwise. The terms "including," "comprising," "having" and variations thereof mean "including," but are not "limited," unless expressly otherwise specified. An enumeration list of items does not imply that any or all of the items are excluded unless expressly otherwise specified. The terms "a," "an," and "the" also refer to "one or more," unless expressly otherwise specified.

Furthermore, the described features, structures or characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules, user selections, network communications, database queries, database structures, hardware modules, hardware circuitry, hardware chips, etc. to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments. One skilled in the art will recognize, however, that the embodiments may be embodied without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other examples, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid confusion of aspects of an embodiment.

Aspects of the embodiments are described below with reference to schematic flowcharts and / or schematic block diagrams of methods, apparatuses, systems, and program products according to embodiments. Each block of the schematic flow diagrams and / or schematic block diagrams and combinations of blocks in the schematic Flowcharts and / or schematic block diagrams can be implemented by code. This code may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device to generate a machine such that the instructions executed by the processor of the computer or other data processing device produce means for implementing the functions / actions which are specified in the schematic flowcharts and / or block or blocks of the schematic block diagrams.

The code may also be stored in a storage device that may control a computer, other programmable computing device, or other device to function in a particular manner so that the instructions stored in the storage device generate an article of manufacture, including instructions implement the functions / actions specified in the schematic flowcharts and / or block or blocks of the schematic block diagrams.

The code may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable computing device, or other device to effect a series of operations that produce a computer-implemented process on the computer, other programmable device, or other devices, such as the code stored on the computer or computer another programmable device, processes for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block or blocks of the block diagram.

The schematic flowcharts and / or schematic block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of devices, systems, methods, and program products according to various embodiments. In this regard, each block in the schematic flowcharts and / or schematic block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that includes one or more executable instructions from the code for implementing the specified logical function (s).

In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may appear outside the order in which they are noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown one after the other may in fact be executed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the opposite order, depending on the functionality involved. Other steps and methods may be understood to be equivalent in function, logic, or effect to one or more blocks or portions thereof, from the illustrated figures.

Although various arrow types and line types may be used in the flowchart and / or block diagrams, they should not be construed as the subject matter of the respective embodiments. In fact, some arrows or other connectors may be used to refer only to the logical flow of the depicted embodiment. For example, an arrow may indicate a wait period of indefinite duration between enumerated steps of the depicted embodiment. Also, each block of block diagrams and / or flowcharts and combinations of blocks may be implemented in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts of systems based on special purpose hardware that perform the specified functions or actions or combinations of special purpose hardware and code.

The description of elements in each figure may refer to elements of further figures. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the figures, including alternative embodiments of the same elements.

For switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver, methods, systems and devices are disclosed herein. Certain digital messages, such as text messages, e-mails, telephone calls, or the like, are likely to be annoying and / or ignored by a recipient in certain user situations (e.g., particular activity contexts). In addition, broadcasters have little a priori knowledge of the best type of communication at any given time. This makes it less likely for a transmitter to disturb the receiver if it knows in advance the receiver's current communication preference.

At present, some devices send user status information, such as presence information, but conventional user status information does not provide information about the types of notifications that the receiver is likely to respond to, or the types of communications that the receiver will respond to the moment the communication is initiated, preferably. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a message sender with preferred communication modes from the receiver before the sender contacts the receiver. If the Sender initiates communication through a non-preferred communication mode, the sender is notified of the preferred communication modes of the receiver. Communication modes are referred to herein as "communication channels" or "communication media." Examples of communication modes include telephone calls, text messages, e-mail, instant messages, embedded / proprietary chat services, voice mail, and the like.

In one embodiment, the device of the transmitter informs the transmitter that the receiver is likely to ignore the communication when the transmitter attempts to use a non-preferred communication channel. In addition, the transmitter device may notify the transmitter via a preferred communication channel and / or request the transmitter to switch communication channels and / or switch to a different communication application using the preferred communication channel. Advantageously, the transmitter's communication is more likely to be perceived by the receiver. Here, the recipient preferences may be provided as a whitelist or as a blacklist, for example, "no calls" or "only texts or e-mails."

Non-limiting examples of recipient preferences include: the recipient prefers calls when traveling, the recipient prefers emails when he is working, the recipient prefers to be left alone when on vacation (eg, only voicemail or email), the recipient prefers instant messages when using his laptop, the receiver prefers "no calls" when playing tennis or exercising. In this last example, an activity tracker can determine that the receiver is training. Alternatively, training may be derived from a GPS location (e.g., the receiver is at a training ground). In another example, the receiver may prefer to prevent switching of an application, which is why it is preferred, e.g. Receive Facebook messages when logged in to a Facebook website or application.

In addition, the sender may be requested to transmit a message over a different communication channel if the original communication channel does not match the preference of the recipient. In certain embodiments, a message on a communication channel may be converted to another form, such as voice mail, e-mail, text message, IM, and the like. In certain embodiments, the conversion may be performed by a digital personal assistant. In other embodiments, the conversion may be performed by a communication server.

In one implementation, the device of the sender switches from a text message application to a telephone application (e.g., automatically) if the recipient's context indicates that he will ignore text messages (e.g., because the recipient is driving a vehicle). In another implementation, the device of the transmitter allows the original communication channel and converts the resulting message in a different form, which is preferred by the receiver. In certain embodiments, the conversion may be "silent" if it is known that the receiver prefers a particular communication channel, e.g. without notification of the sender. In other embodiments, the device of the sender indicates an indication in the message so that both users are aware of the transformation.

In various embodiments, different transmitters may be assigned to different preferred media. For example, text messages may be the preferred communication mode for friends and calls may be the preferred mode of communication for others. Here, the receiver can configure certain communication modes for stored contacts as desired. In other embodiments, the configuration may be automatic based on a specified relationship of the sender to the recipient or a "circle" of a social network of the recipient to which the sender belongs.

In one example, a sender may try to text someone who is driving. Here, the sender device will stop the sender from composing an attempt to compose a text message and inform the sender of the recipient's preference for voice calls rather than the sender's device sending the text message and optionally the receiver's device automatically with the text, I drive, we'll talk later, 'answers. In an alternative example, the transmitter device will change the communication channel to a voice call based on the preference of the recipient.

1 forms a system 100 for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure. The system 100 contains a plurality of electronic devices 105a-n (referred to collectively as electronic devices 105 Is referred). The system 100 also contains a preference server 125 and a communication server 130 , In certain embodiments, the preference server 125 and the communication server 130 the same server be. Here are the electronic devices 105 shown through a network 140 communicate. The network 140 may include one or more data networks, including, but not limited to, telephone networks, local area networks, wireless networks, the Internet, and the like.

The electronic devices 105 are configured via a plurality of communication media 135 to communicate. Examples of communication media 135 include, but are not limited to, SMS messages, MMS messages, telephone calls, voice recording, e-mail, video calls, direct messages, video recording, and the like. Examples of the electronic device 105 include, but are not limited to, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a game console, or any other suitable communication device.

For the sake of simplicity of illustration, the communication media 135 pictured as being between the electronic device 105a (eg a transmitter device) and the electronic device 105B (eg a receiver device). In certain embodiments, one or more communication media 135 Use a direct connection between the transmitter device and the receiver device. A communication between the electronic devices 105 however, is generally networked 140 , Additionally, communication server can 130 a communication between electronic devices 105 via various communication media 135 enable.

The electronic devices 105 contain a communication mode control 110 , an activity monitor 115 and one or more activity sensors 120 , In various embodiments, communication mode control directs 110 a transmitter device on one of the communication media 135 that is preferred by the receiver device (eg, a preferred mode of communication). If the communication involves multiple receivers, the communication mode control 110 the transmitter device to a common communication medium 135 , a most popular communication medium 135 judge. In other embodiments, the communication mode control directs 110 the transmitter device is not on another communication medium 135 if the communication involves multiple recipients.

As will be discussed in more detail herein, the preferred communication medium will be 135 selected based on an activity context of the receiving device. Here determines the activity monitor 135 the activity context, for example, based on data collected by the activity sensor (s) 120 be generated. The activity context may be based on one or more of a time of day, a location of the recipient, an application used by the recipient, transaction data for the recipient, and the like.

In some embodiments, each communication medium is 135 a particular communication application on the electronic device 105 assigned. In addition, certain electronic devices 105 no access to one or more communication media 135 For example, because they do not have a corresponding application, they have a subscription that comes from the network 140 is required, not show or the like. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the preferred mode of communication of the receiving device may be a subset of communication media 135 contain.

Wherever the preference server coordinates 125 a distribution of preference information in the system 100 , For example, the electronic devices 105 Communication preferences on the preference server 125 Attach. In addition, the electronic devices 105 Activity context information to the preference server 125 Upload. This allows the electronic device 105a , eg the transmitter device, communication preference information and / or activity context information from the receiver device (eg the electronic device 105b) when a user (sender) initiates communication with the receiver.

As described in more detail below, the communication mode control 110 detect that the user (sender) initiates communication with the receiver. Here, initiating communication with the recipient may include opening a specific communication application, bringing the specific communication application to the foreground (eg, top / active window), and identifying the recipient within the committee and application. By detecting the initiation of the communication is the electronic device 105a configured to determine whether the communication corresponds to a preference of the recipient and, if needed, to notify the sender that the recipient prefers a different mode of communication (eg, communication over different communication media 135 ).

Upon detecting the initiation of communication with a receiver, the electronic device 105a the preference server 125 inquire for current preferences of the recipient. In one embodiment, the preference server 125 a table or other data structure ready, in the preferred communication media 135 correlated with specific situations and an activity context used to select the specific situation. In another embodiment, the electronic device 105a a table or other data structure stored therein, preferably communication media 135 correlated with specific situations and the preference server 125 provide a current activity context of the recipient. In other embodiments, the preference server determines 125 a specific communication preference based on the activity context of the recipient and sends the specific communication preference to the electronic device 105a ,

In certain embodiments, the communication server may 130 the conversion of a communication using a communication medium 135 in a communication that is a different communication medium 135 allow, based on the preference of the recipient. For example, the communication server 130 convert a text message into a voice message (or vice versa). In addition, the communication server can 130 Responses from the receiver (eg the electronic device 105b) convert it to a user of the electronic device 105a Seems that communication over a first communication medium 135 occurs whereas it is for the user of the electronic device 105b Seems that communication via a second communication medium 135 occurs.

2 forms a communication system 200 for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure. The communication system 200 may be an embodiment of the system 100 be. The communication system 200 contains a transmitter device 205 that is here by user 215 is operated, which is a communication with a receiver 220 through the receiver device 215 initiates. For simplicity of illustration, network connections and communications accessories are the transmitter device 205 with the receiver device 215 connect not shown here. The transmitter device 205 can in one embodiment of the electronic device 105a be while the receiver device 210 an embodiment of the electronic device 105b can be.

In the depicted embodiment, the transmitter device routes 205 a communication with the receiver 220 one. Such communication will be at the receiving device 215 receive the receiver 220 to get presented. For clarity, communications will be between the user 210 and the receiver 220 understood that this by the transmitter device 205 and the receiver device 215 be enabled. This is understood to be the communicating of the user 210 with the receiver 220 refers to the fact that the user 210 and receiver 220 each other through the transmitter device 205 and the receiver device 215 communicate.

The receiver device 215 generates communication preference information 225 specifying one or more preferred communication media to be used in certain situations (also referred to herein as "communication channels" and / or "communication modes"). Examples of preferred communication media include, but are not limited to, a voice call, video call, text message, SMS message, MMS, IM message, voice recording, and video recording. Here can communication preference information 225 contain a prioritized list of communication media according to specific situations. An example of communication preference information 225 is in 4A displayed.

In various embodiments, the communication preference information is included 225 that from the receiving device 215 be generated, also an activity context 230 Recipient 220 , Here the activity context refers 230 on a state of the recipient and may be on one or more of a time of day, a place of the recipient 220 , a detected activity by the recipient 220 is carried out, a website by the recipient 220 is visited and an active application on the receiving device 215 and the like. In one embodiment, the receiving device determines 210 a specific communication preference 235 using the activity context 230 , In certain embodiments, the receiving device loads 215 the communication preference information 225 , Activity context 230 and / or the specific communication preference 235 to a server (not shown here), like the preference server 125 high.

When initiating a communication with a receiver by the transmitter 210 , determines the transmitter device 205 in that a user communicates with the receiver through a first communication medium 240 initiates. In addition, the transmitter device calls 205 Preference information of the recipient 220 from. Here, the preference information may be the communication preference information 225 and / or the activity context 230 contain. Based on the preference information, the transmitter device identifies 205 a specific communication preference 235 , In one embodiment, the transmitter device receives 205 the specific one communication preference 235 , eg from the receiver device 215 or from a server.

In certain environments, the transmitter device broadcasts 205 a first communication 245 through the first communication medium 240 in response to that being the first communication medium 240 the communication preference 235 equivalent. In addition, the transmitter device 205 the user about the specific communication preference 235 in response, notify that the first communication medium 240 not the communication preference 235 equivalent. Here is the specific communication preference 235 contain one or more communication media.

In certain embodiments, the transmitter device notifies 205 the transmitter 210 the communication preference by identifying an available communication application that matches the communication preference and provides a connection to the available communication application. For example, the transmitter device 205 within an editing window of the first communication medium 240 present a pop-up window or other notification containing a connection or other selectable object (eg, button, icon, etc.) that will open the appropriate available communication application, such as an e-mail program, text message program, instant message program, telephone application, or like.

In some embodiments, the transmitter device notifies 205 the transmitter 210 about the communication preference in that it is a first type of media of the first communication medium 240 and one or more preferred media types of the communication preference 235 identified. Here the transmitter device compares 205 Media types to determine if the first media type corresponds to one or more preferred media types. As stated above, the transmitter device 205 with communication via the first communication medium 240 in response to the first type of media corresponding to one or more preferred media types. However, if the first type of media is not one of the preferred types of media, the transmitter device may 205 then the transmitter 210 prompt on a second communication medium 245 switch. Here, it is assumed that one type of media is from the second communication medium 245 corresponding to one or more preferred media types. In certain embodiments, the transmitter device prevents 205 a communication using the first communication medium 240 if the first media type does not correspond to the one or more preferred media types.

In one embodiment, the transmitter device receives 205 the communication preference 235 , eg from the receiver device 215 or from a preference server (not shown). In another embodiment, the transmitter device receives 205 Communication preference information 225 including an activity context 230 from the receiving device 215 or from a preference server and derives the specific communication preference 235 from. The specific communication preference 235 may be on one or more of: an activity of the recipient 220 , a place of the recipient, a time of day, etc. are based. In certain embodiments, the specific communication preference is based 235 continue on the identity of the transmitter 210 , If, for example, information for the sender 210 as a contact of the recipient 220 stored, then a communication medium (eg voice call) from the receiver 220 be preferred while when the transmitter 210 no contact of the recipient is, another communication medium (eg voice message) may be preferred.

In certain embodiments, the transmitter device 205 a first communication 250 in a second communication 255 for transmitting over the second communication medium 245 transform, wherein the second communication medium 245 the specific communication preference 235 equivalent. Such a transformation occurs in response to being the first communication medium 245 not the specific communication preference 235 equivalent. Here is the first communication 250 for distribution over the first communication medium 240 generated. The conversion may include converting speech to text or text to speech, depending on the types of communication media involved.

In one embodiment, the conversion is in response to an explicit instruction from the sender 210 , In other embodiments, the conversion is performed automatically when the first communication medium 240 not the specific communication preference 235 equivalent. In further embodiments, a conversion may be performed in the background and / or performed by a communication server. In one embodiment, the transmitter 210 not being aware of the transformation. In another embodiment, the transmitter device informs 205 the transmitter 210 about the conversion, eg after converting the first communication 250 and settling the resulting second communication 255 over the second communication medium 245 ,

3A forms a device for switching a communication mode based on the Preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure from. In the example shown, the device is as a communication device 300 executed. The communication device 300 may be an embodiment of the electronic device discussed above 105 be.

Here contains the communication device 300 a processor 305 , a store 310 , an input device 315 , an output device 320 , a communication mode control 325 and communication hardware 335 , The communication mode control 325 FIG. 12 may illustrate one embodiment of the communication mode control discussed above 110 be. In various embodiments, the communication device 300 optional an activity monitor 330 contain. Here's the activity monitor 330 an embodiment of the activity monitor discussed above 115 be. Accordingly, the communication device 300 the transmitter device 205 and / or the receiving device 215 include.

The communication device 300 may include a body or a housing, wherein the components of the communication device 300 are arranged within the housing. Although it is not pictured, the communication device can 300 a power source, such as a battery, power supply, or other source of electrical power. In addition, the components of the communication device 300 communicatively coupled with each other, for example by a computer bus.

The processor 305 In one embodiment, it may include any known controller configured to execute computer-readable instructions and / or configured to perform logical operations. For example, the processor 305 a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphical calculation unit (GPU), an auxiliary calculation unit, an FPGA or similar programmable controller. In some embodiments, the processor performs 305 Instructions issued in the memory 310 are stored to perform the methods and routines described herein. The processor 305 is ready to communicate with the memory 310 , the input device 315 , the output device 320 , the communication mode control 325 , the activity monitor 330 and the communication hardware 335 coupled.

The memory 310 In one embodiment, it is a computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, the memory includes 310 volatile computer storage media. For example, the memory 310 random access memory (RAM) including dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), and / or static RAM (SRAM). In some embodiments, the memory includes 310 non-volatile computer storage media. For example, the memory 310 a hard disk, flash memory or any other suitable non-volatile computer storage device. In some embodiments, the memory includes 310 both volatile and non-volatile computer storage media.

In some embodiments, the memory stores 310 Data related to switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver. For example, the memory 310 Communication preferences, communication modes that are associated with specific applications, saving activity context and the like. In some embodiments, the memory stores 310 also program code and related data, as well as an operating system, which is the communication device 300 operates. In one embodiment, the communication mode control 325 in a software application (or set of software applications) stored in the memory 310 is stored on the communication device 300 is operated.

The input device 315 In one embodiment, it may include any known computer input device, including a touchpad, a button, a keyboard, a microphone, a camera, and the like. For example, the input device 315 a microphone or similar audio input device, with which a user inputs audio or voice data (eg voice commands). In some embodiments, the input device 315 (or part of it) into the output device 320 be integrated, for example as a touch screen or similar touch-sensitive display. In some embodiments, the input device includes 315 two or more different devices, such as a microphone and a touchpad. The input device 315 can include a camera to capture images or otherwise enter visual data.

The output device 320 In one embodiment, it is configured to output visual, audible, and / or haptic signals. In some embodiments, the output device includes 320 an electronic display configured to output visual data to a user. For example, the output device 320 an LCD display, an LED display, an OLED display, a projector or a similar display device, which is designed to output images, text or the like to a user. In certain embodiments, the output device includes 320 one or more speakers for generating sounds, such as an audible alarm or notification. In some embodiments, this includes output device 320 one or more haptic devices for generating vibrations, motion or other haptic output.

In some embodiments, the entire output device 320 or parts of it in the input device 315 be integrated. For example, the input device 315 and output device 320 form a touch screen or similar touch-sensitive display. As another example, the input device 315 and output device 320 form a display containing haptic response mechanisms. In other embodiments, the output device 320 near the input device 315 be arranged. For example, a camera, microphone, speakers, and touch screen may all be on a common surface of the electronic device 300 be arranged. The output device 320 may provide instructions and / or data for output from the processor 305 and / or the communication mode controller 325 receive.

The communication mode control 325 In one embodiment, it is configured to initiate communication with the receiver. Alternatively, the communication mode control 235 be configured to detect the initiation of communication with the receiver. As discussed in more detail herein, initiating communication with the receiver may include opening an application associated with a first communication mode (eg, first communication channel). When the user initiates communication with a receiver, the communication mode controller determines 325 a first communication mode associated with the communication. In addition, the communication mode control identifies 325 a preferred communication mode of the receiver (eg, based on an activity context of the receiver) and determines whether the first communication mode corresponds to the preferred communication mode.

In some embodiments, the communication mode control is off 325 the communication to when the first communication mode corresponds to the preferred communication mode.

In certain embodiments, the communication mode controller notifies 325 the user about the communication preference of the receiver if the first communication mode does not correspond to the preferred communication mode. For example, the communication mode control 325 prompt the user to switch to a second communication mode that corresponds to the communication preference. The request may include a connection to an available communication application using the preferred communication mode.

In one embodiment, the communication mode control allows 325 the user to override the recipient's preference and continue the communication using the first communication mode. In another embodiment, the communication mode control converts 325 a first communication made using the first communication mode to a second communication using a second communication mode, wherein the second communication mode corresponds to a communication preference of the receiver and the first communication mode does not correspond to the communication preference.

The activity monitor 330 In one embodiment, it is configured to provide activity context for the communication device 300 to create. Here, the activity context refers to a state of the user and may be on one or more of a time of day, a location of the communication device 300 , a detected activity performed by the user, a web page to which the communication device 300 accesses and an active application of the communication device 300 and the like. Here's the activity monitor 330 with one or more sensors of the communication device 300 (not shown) and / or one or more sensors carried by the user. The various sensors provide data indicative of an activity of the user. Data relevant to an activity of the user may include, but is not limited to, motion data, heart rate data, location data, image data, audio data, and the like.

In certain embodiments, the activity monitor operates 330 to calendar data if it determines the user's activity context. In certain embodiments, the activity monitor operates 330 to an activity history of the user when determining the user's activity context. In addition, the activity monitor 330 determine a specific communication preference of the user based on the activity context. Here's the activity monitor 330 Communication preferences for the communication device 300 generate by correlating different activity contexts with one or more preferred communication modes.

Once the user's communication preference has been determined, the activity monitor can 330 Publish the communication preference of the user. In addition, the activity monitor 330 the activity context of the user publish. Here, "publishing" the communication preference and / or the activity context includes uploading the communication preference and / or activity context to a server, to a connecting device, and the like.

The communication hardware 335 can be wired or wireless communication between the communication device 300 and another device or network, such as the network 140 , support. The wireless connection may include a mobile telephone network. The wireless connection can also use Wi-Fi network based on one of the 802.11 standards of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). Alternatively, the wireless connection may be a BLUETOOTH® connection. In addition, the wireless link may use radio frequency (RFID) communication including RFID standards approved by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM®). , the DASH7 ™ alliance and EPCGlobal ™ have been established.

Alternatively, the wireless connection may use a ZigBee® connection based on the IEEE 802 standard. In one embodiment, the wireless connection uses a Z-Wave® connection as designed by Sigma Designs®. Alternatively, the wireless connection may use an ANT® and / or ANT +® connection as defined by Dynastream® Innovations Inc. of Cochrane, Canada.

The wireless connection can be an infrared connection, including connections that comply with at least the Infrared Physical Layer Specification (IrPHY) as defined by the Infrared Data Association (IrDA®). Alternatively, the wireless connection may be cellular telephone network communication. All standards and / or connection types contain the latest version and revision of the standard and / or connection type at the filing date of this application.

3B forms a channel control 350 according to embodiments of the disclosure from. Here is the channel control 350 an embodiment of the communication mode control 325 and / or communication mode control 110 as described above. In the depicted embodiment, the channel control includes 350 a plurality of modules, including an interceptor module 355 , a channel module 360 , a preference module 365 , a call module 370 , an available channel module 375 , an activity context module 380 and a conversion module 385 , As described above, the modules 355 - 385 be implemented as a hardware circuit, a programmable hardware device, or software for execution by various types of processors.

The interception module 355 In one embodiment, it is configured to determine that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication channel. In various embodiments, the intercept module identifies 355 an open communication application. In some embodiments, the intercept module monitors 355 in that a communication application is opened or becomes a topmost / active application.

As used herein, initiating communication with the receiver refers to the user (e.g., sender) selecting (e.g., opens) a communications application and pointing to an intended recipient of a communication to be made using the communications application. For example, initiating communication with the recipient when making a voice call includes opening a phone application and selecting the recipient (eg, selecting a contact entry corresponding to the recipient, entering a phone number of the recipient, entering a SIP address of the recipient, etc.) , As another example, initiating communication with the recipient when sending a text message includes opening the text message application and selecting a conversation (or starting a new conversation) with the recipient. In certain embodiments, detecting initiation of communication with the receiver includes detecting that the user has entered a text entry field, e.g. from a creation window.

In one embodiment, the intercept module determines 355 in that the user initiates communication with a single recipient. In other embodiments, the intercept module determines 355 in that the user initiates communication with a plurality of recipients. The communication initiated by the first communication channel may be one of: a voice call, a video call, a text message, an SMS message, an MMS message, an IM, a voice recording, and a video recording. In one embodiment, the first communication channel is a messaging interface within a web page, such as a social media network web page.

The channel module 360 In one embodiment, it is configured to determine whether the first communication channel corresponds to a preferred communication channel of the receiver. In certain embodiments, the channel module leaves 360 communication over the first communication channel when the first communication channel corresponds to the communication channel preference. However, if the channel module 360 determines that the first communication channel does not correspond to the preferred communication channels of the receiver, the channel module 360 the prompt module 370 trigger, with the prompt module 370 notifies the user (sender) of the recipient's preference. The channel module 360 receives data from the preference module 365 , In some embodiments, the channel module includes 360 an available channel module 375 ,

The preference module 365 In one embodiment, it is configured to receive a communication channel preference of the receiver. In some embodiments, the preference module receives 365 the communication channel preference directly from the receiver. In another embodiment, the preference module receives 365 the communication channel preference from an intermediate server, such as the preference server 120 , Furthermore, the preference module 365 Search the memory of the transmitter's device to get the communication channel preference. For example, a contact entry corresponding to the recipient may include the communication channel preference for that recipient. Here, the communication channel preference stored on the sender's device can be periodically updated by the receiver and / or the preference server.

In some embodiments, the communication channel preference of the recipient is based on an activity context of the recipient. In certain embodiments, the preference module receives 365 Preference information regarding the recipient and / or activity context information regarding the recipient. The preference module 365 then determines from the received information one or more preferred communication channels. In further embodiments, the communication channel preference is further based on an identity of the sender. For example, a relational context between the sender and the recipient may be identified using the relational context with the activity context to select one or more preferred communication channels using the preference of the recipient information. As another example, a class of a contact to which the sender belongs may influence the preferred communication channel.

The prompt module 370 In one embodiment, configured to prompt the user to switch to a second communication channel in response to the first communication channel not corresponding to the communication channel preference. In various embodiments, prompting the user to switch to the second communication channel includes the prompt module 370 display a visual notification, present an audio notification, present a vibrating alert, and combinations thereof. For example, the prompt module 370 present a pop-up window on the canvas of an application using the first communication channel. Here, the pop-up window may notify the user of the recipient's communication preference and request that the user toggle to an application using the second communication channel. In some embodiments, the prompt module may 370 allow the user to ignore the request and continue communication on the first communication channel despite the recipient's opposite preference.

The available channel module 375 In one embodiment, it is configured to identify an available communication application that corresponds to the communication channel preference. For example, the available channel module searches 375 a list of installed applications on the communication device to select an available communication application. In certain embodiments, the available channel module will hold 375 a table of installed communication applications (eg, a telephone application, an SMS application, an MMS application, a text message application, an IM program, an e-mail program, a video / voice message program, etc.) and one Mapping of each installed communication application to one or more communication channel types. In certain embodiments, each installed communication application is associated with a single communication channel type. In addition, the available channel module 375 the prompt module 370 provide a connection to the available communication device. Here is the prompt module 375 Notify the user of the recipient's communication channel preference and present the provided connection so that the user can easily open the available communication application.

The activity context module 380 In one embodiment, configured is an activity context for channel control 350 to determine. For example, the activity context module 380 be communicatively coupled to one or more sensors, such as a location / position (eg, GPS) sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, etc. The activity context module 380 determines the activity context from the various sensor data. For example, certain Combinations of sensor data (eg, biometric sensor data, location sensor data, motion sensor data) indicate that the user is training. As another example, other combinations of sensor data may indicate that the user is sleeping / sleeping. In addition, geofencing and calendaring principles can also be used to determine the activity context, for example, to determine that the user is at school, in a theater, in a church, etc.

In addition, the activity context module may 380 different user activity contexts correlate with preferred communication modes. For example, the activity context "driving" may correspond to a preference for voice calls (or a preference to text messages). As another example, the activity context "training" may correspond to a preference for text messages, voice messages, and video messages (or a preference for real-time communication modes such as voice calls, video calls, IM, etc.). In certain embodiments, the activity context module may 380 receive specific preference input from the user. In some embodiments, the activity context module may 380 Use various machine learning techniques to correlate user activity contexts with preferred communication modes.

The conversion module 385 In one embodiment, it is configured to convert a first communication made using the first communication channel to a second communication using a second communication channel. For example, the conversion module 385 convert the first communication in response to the first communication channel not corresponding to the communication channel preference. In one embodiment, the conversion module transforms 385 the first communication after instructions from the user.

In another embodiment, the conversion module converts 385 the first communication automatically after the user instructs to send the first hint. For example, the user may press a "send" button after writing the first communication using the conversion module 305 the first communication converts to a second communication using the second communication channel. In certain embodiments, the user is notified of the transformation. For example, the conversion module 385 request that the prompt module 3702 notifies the user of the transformation. In other embodiments, the conversion is "mute" (eg, not announced to the user) and / or occurs in the background. The transformation may include a speech-to-text conversion and / or a text-to-speech transformation.

In certain embodiments, the communication module is changing 385 Also, reply messages received by the receiver over the second communication channel into messages of a type used by the first communication channel. For example, a sender may send a text message to its recipient may include converting the text message to a voice message, wherein the communication module 385 converts a return voice message into a text message to present to the sender. In communication devices with limited resources, the conversion module 385 identify the first communication so that one communication server performs the conversion to the second communication (and vice versa). Here, the communication device may send the first message to the communication server through the first communication channel, wherein the communication server converts the message into the second message and transmits the second message through the second communication channel to the receiver.

4A forms an exemplary table 400 containing communication preference information according to embodiments of the disclosure. Here is the table 400 a plurality of entries 405 where each entry is an activity context 410 and corresponding preferred communication channels 415 contains. Preference communication channels 410 can be considered as a whitelist (eg, the preferred channels are those that are listed) or as a blacklist (eg, the preferred channels include all but the listed ones). It can be a specific activity context 410 be assigned to several preferred communication channels. For example, certain activity contexts 410 be assigned a preference for real-time communication modes, while other activity contexts 410 may be associated with a preference for non-real-time communication modes. As another example, certain activity contexts may 410 be assigned a preference for voice / audio communication modes while other activity contexts 410 associated with a preference for text communication modes.

4B forms an exemplary scenario 420 for determining an activity context of the user 425 from. As shown, data from different sources can be controlled by an activity 450 be aggregated and analyzed. Here collects the activity control 450 location data 430 , Movement data 435 , biometric data 440 and a user history 445 for the user 425 , The location data 430 refer to a position, eg within the world, of the user 425 , In various embodiments, the location data 430 Include location coordinates, such as those determined using a global positioning system.

The movement data 435 refer to a movement of the user, eg relative to a certain position. Here you can see the movement data 435 indicating that the user is running, walking, stationary and the like. In addition, an analysis of the movement data 435 indicating that the user is driving or using a vehicle. The biometric data 440 indicate characteristics of the user's body, such as skin temperature, body temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, and the like. The biometric data 440 can be used to distinguish between different activity contexts 410 to distinguish, for example, to distinguish between whether the user sleeps or the user is attentive, but stationary. The user history 445 can be used to specific locations, movement patterns and the like specific activity contexts 410 assigned.

The activity control 450 may be an embodiment of the activity monitor 115 , the activity monitor 330 and / or the activity context module 480 be. Here the activity monitor aggregates 450 the different sensor data to the activity context for the user 425 to determine. As shown, the activity control determines 435 from the analysis a current specific activity context 455 , here that the user 425 trained. In addition, the activity control 450 the current activity context 455 Publish, for example, upload to a server, transferred to a contact, transmitted to a transmitter device and the like.

5A-5B make off, like a communication device 505 switches a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure. 5A forms the first stage 500 of the communication device 505 switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver. The communication device 505 may be an embodiment of the electronic device 105A , the transmitter device 205 and / or the communication device 300 be. The communication device 505 may be an embodiment of the communication mode control 110 , the communication mode control 330 and / or channel control 350 contain.

In various embodiments, the communication device includes 505 a plurality of communication applications 510 , Shown examples of installed communication applications 510 are the phone application 515 , Text message application 520 , In program 525 and web program 530 , However, in other embodiments, different and / or additional communication applications may be used 510 on the communication device 505 be installed.

In various embodiments, communication device determines 505 in that the user (eg sender) initiates communication with the receiver. In the depicted embodiment, the communication device detects 505 that the user is the phone application 515 opens and dials the recipient's phone number (see block 535 ). In response to the detection of the communication initiation, the communication device calls 505 Preference data and activity context for the recipient (see block 540 ). The preference data can be a table 545 that correlates different activity contexts with specific communication preferences, for example as in 4A displayed.

5B forms a second stage 550 of the communication device 505 which switches a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure. This is where the communication device determines 505 that the phone application 515 does not correspond to a preferred communication mode of the receiver (see block 555 ). In response to that the phone application 515 does not correspond to the preferred communication mode, notifies the communication device 505 the user about the preference of the recipient (see block 560 ). In the depicted embodiment, the communication device 505 a call 565 on, here's a pop-up window over the phone application 515 is shown. The request 565 indicates that the recipient currently prefers to receive text messages. In addition, the request contains 565 a connection 5702 to the appropriate application corresponding to the preferred communication mode, for example the text message application 520 and / or IM program 525 , Furthermore, the request can 565 an opt-out option 575 despite the fact that the recipient currently prefers text messaging, it allows the user to use the telephone application 515 continue.

When receiving the request 565 The user may choose to change communication modes and send a text message to the recipient. Here the user can have a separate Open the text message application, or alternatively, the user can choose to continue making a phone call using the phone application 515 by selecting the opt-out option 575 discontinued. In certain embodiments, the communication device 505 Voice input using the phone application 515 Turn into one or more text messages in response to the user opting out of the option 575 selected and send one or more text messages. In other embodiments, the communication device employs 505 the phone call in response to the user opting out of the option 575 selects.

6 forms a procedure 600 for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the method becomes 600 from the electronic device 105 , the transmitter device 205 , the communication device 300 , the communication mode control 325 and / or channel control 400 performed as described above. In some embodiments, the method becomes 600 from a processor such as a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphic computing unit (GPU), an auxiliary computing unit, an FPGA, or the like.

The procedure 600 begins and determines 605 in that the user initiates communication with the receiver through a first communication mode. In some embodiments, determining includes 605 in that the user initiates communication with the receiver through a first communication mode, identifying an open communication application, and identifying a communication type used by the communication application. Here, the open communication application corresponds to the first communication mode. Exemplary embodiments of the first communication mode include, but are not limited to, a voice call, video call, text message, SMS message, MMS message, IM message, chat room message, voice recording, video recording, and the like.

The procedure 600 contains a receive 610 a communication mode preference of the receiver. In one embodiment, the communication mode preference is received by the receiver (eg, by a device of the receiver) 610 , In another embodiment, the communication mode preference is from a server, such as the preference server 120 receive 610 , In further embodiments, the communication mode preference is received from a memory of the user device 610 (eg retrieved). In various embodiments, the communication mode preference of the recipient is based on an activity context of the recipient. In certain embodiments, the communication mode preference is based on an identity of the sender.

The procedure 600 contains a request 615 the user to switch communication modes in response to the first communication mode not corresponding to the communication preference. Here, the prompting may be communicated by the user device, for example, as an audible and / or visual alarm, a pop-up window, and the like. The procedure 600 ends.

In some embodiments, the request includes 615 user communication modes; identifying one or more preferred communication types from the communication mode preference of the recipient, determining whether a communication type of the first communication mode corresponds to the one or more preferred communication types, and prompting the user for a highest priority of the one or more preferred communication types in response to switching, that the first communication type does not correspond to the one or more preferred communication types.

In certain embodiments, the request includes 615 switching user communication modes, identifying an available communication application that corresponds to the communication mode preference, notifying the user of the communication mode preference, and providing a connection to the available communication application. In addition, the request may 615 the user switching communication modes in response to a first communication mode not corresponding to a preferred communication mode also allowing a communication using the first communication mode in response to the first communication mode corresponding to a preferred communication mode.

7 forms a procedure 700 for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the method becomes 700 from the electronic device 105 , the transmitter device 205 , the communication device 300 , the communication mode control 325 and / or channel control 400 performed as described above. In some embodiments, the method becomes 700 from a processor, such as a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphic computing unit (GPU), an auxiliary computing unit, an FPGA or the like.

The procedure 700 begins and identifies 705 one or more communication preferences each of a plurality of user situations. Here, each user situation may correspond to a specific activity context, such as driving, being at work, being on vacation, using a laptop, exercising, and the like. In addition, identifying can 705 the one or more communication preferences include receiving a user input that associates a specific communication channel / mode with a given user situation. In some embodiments, the identifying 705 for example, by correlating communication modes used by the receiver during the plurality of user situations. Here, one or more machine learning techniques may be used to automatically identify the communication preferences.

The procedure 700 contains a determination 710 a current activity context for the user. Here, various sensor data can be analyzed to determine the current activity context. Exemplary sensor data may include, but is not limited to, time of day, current location, movement data, biometric data, and the like. In certain embodiments, determining includes 710 of the current activity context, receiving a specific input from the user indicative of the activity context. For example, a user may use a fitness application to track a current activity, wherein the determining 710 of the current activity context includes identifying the usage of the fitness application and selecting an appropriate activity context based on the fitness application.

The procedure 700 contains a transfer 715 data indicative of a specific communication preference, the specific communication preferences being based on the activity context. In certain embodiments, the data indicative of a specific communication preference is the particular activity context. In certain embodiments, the data indicative of a specific communication preference is a communication mode that corresponds to the particular activity context. In other embodiments, the data indicative of a specific communication preference includes both the identified communication preferences and the particular activity context. In some embodiments, the transfer includes 715 the data indicative of a specific communication preference, sending the data to a server, such as the preference server 125 , In other embodiments, the transfer includes 715 the data indicative of a specific communication preference, sending the data to a transmitter device, for example in response to a request from the transmitter device. The procedure 700 ends.

8th forms a procedure 800 for switching a communication mode based on the preference of the communication receiver according to embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the method becomes 800 from the electronic device 105 , the transmitter device 205 the communication device 300 , the communication mode control 325 and / or channel control 400 performed as described above. In some embodiments, the method becomes 800 from a processor such as a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphic computing unit (GPU), an auxiliary computing unit, an FPGA, or the like.

The procedure 800 begins and detects 805 the beginning of a communication with a receiver, the communication taking place using a first communication mode. In various embodiments, detecting includes 805 initiating communication with a receiver, determining at a transmitter device that the user initiates communication with a receiver, as discussed above. In addition, the detection can 805 starting to communicate with the recipient, identifying an open communication application, and identifying a selection of the recipient.

The procedure 800 contains a determination 810 whether the transmitter device has preference information for the receiver. In response to a determination 801 in that the transmitter device does not have preference information for the receiver, includes the method 800 a retrieval 815 of preference information for the recipient. In one embodiment, fetching includes 815 the preference information requests a recipient device of the receiver for current preference information. In another embodiment, retrieval includes 815 the preference information requesting a preference server for current preference information of the recipient.

In response to the transmitter device having preference information for the receiver, the method includes 800 a reception 820 an activity context of the recipient. Here, the activity context may be received directly by the recipient or may be from a server, such as the preference server 125 be received. When the transmitter device retrieves preference information for the receiver, the retrieval may include receiving a current activity context.

The procedure 800 contains an identifying 825 a preferred mode of communication for the recipient using the activity context. Here can identify 825 of the preferred communication mode include using the activity context to retrieve the preferred communication mode from the preference information. In response to identifying 825 of the preferred communication mode includes the method 800 a determination 830 whether the first communication mode corresponds to the preferred communication mode.

If the first communication mode corresponds to the preferred communication mode 835 the procedure 800 the first communication mode to communicate with the receiver. Otherwise, if the first communication mode does not correspond to the preferred communication mode, determines 840 the procedure 800 Whether there is an available application that uses a second communication mode, the second communication mode corresponds to the preferred communication mode. If such an application is available, the procedure includes 800 a request 845 the user to use the available application that uses the second communication mode. Otherwise, if no such application is available, the procedure includes 800 a use 835 the first communication mode to communicate with the receiver. The procedure 800 ends.

Embodiments may be practiced in other specific forms. The described embodiments are to be understood in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The subject of the invention is, therefore, indicated in the appended claims, rather than in the foregoing description. Any changes that are within the meaning and range of equivalence of the claims should be within the scope thereof. What is claimed is:

Claims (20)

Apparatus comprising: a processor; and a memory storing code executable by the processor for: Determining that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication channel; Receiving a communication channel preference of the recipient; and - prompting the user to switch to a second communication channel in response to the first communication channel not corresponding to the communication channel preference. Device after Claim 1 wherein the processor further allows communication over the first communication channel in response to the first communication channel corresponding to the communication channel preference. Device after Claim 1 wherein the communication channel preference of the recipient is based on an activity context of the recipient. Device after Claim 3 wherein the communication channel preference of the recipient is further based on an identity of the user. Device after Claim 1 wherein determining that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication channel comprises the processor identifying an open communication application and identifying a channel type used by the communication application, the channel type being selected from the group of: a voice call, a video call, a text message, a short message service ("SMS") message, a multimedia message service message ("MMS"), an instant message ("IM"), a voice recording, and a video recording. Device after Claim 1 wherein prompting the user to switch to a second communication channel comprises the processor: - identifying an available communication application using the second communication channel, the second communication channel corresponding to the communication channel preference; notify the user of the communication channel preference; and providing a connection to the available communication application. Device after Claim 1 wherein the processor further converts a first communication made using the first communication channel to a second communication using the second communication channel in response to the first communication channel not meeting the communication preference and sending the second communication to the user, wherein the conversion is selected from the group consisting of: converting speech to text and converting text to speech. Device after Claim 1 wherein receiving the communication channel preference of the recipient comprises one or more of: receiving the communication channel preference from a server, receiving the communication channel preference from a device of the recipient, and retrieving the communication channel preference from the memory. Method, comprising: Determining, by using a processor, that a user initiates communication with a receiver through a first communication mode; Receiving a communication mode preference of the recipient; and - prompting the user by a user device to switch communication modes in response to the first communication mode not corresponding to the communication mode preference. Method according to Claim 9 wherein determining that a user initiates communication with a recipient through a first communication mode comprises: identifying an open communication application; and identifying a communication type used by the communication application, the communication type being selected from the group consisting of: a voice call, a video call, a text message, a short message service ("SMS") message, a multimedia message service message ("MMS"). ), an instant message ("IM"), a voice recording and a video recording. Method according to Claim 9 wherein the method further comprises allowing communication over the first communication mode in response to the first communication mode corresponding to the one or more communication mode preferences, wherein prompting the user to switch communication modes comprises: identifying one or more preferred communication types from the communication mode preference Recipient; Determining whether a communication type of the first communication mode corresponds to the one or more preferred communication types; and - prompting the user for a highest priority from the one or more preferred communication types in response to switching over that the first communication type does not correspond to the one or more preferred communication types. Method according to Claim 9 wherein the prompting the user to switch communication modes in response to the first communication mode not corresponding to the communication mode preference comprises: identifying an available communication application corresponding to the communication mode preference; Notifying the user of the communication mode preference; and providing a connection to the available communication application. Method according to Claim 9 , further comprising: converting a first communication made using the first communication mode to a second communication using a preferred communication mode, wherein the conversion is selected from the group consisting of: converting speech to text and converting text in language; and - sending the communication to the user. Method according to Claim 9 wherein receiving the communication mode preference of the recipient comprises one or more of: receiving the communication mode preference from a server, receiving the communication mode preference from a device of the recipient, and retrieving the communication mode preference from a memory of the user device. Method according to Claim 9 wherein the communication mode preference of the recipient is based on an activity context of the recipient. System comprising: a transmitter device that initiates communication with a receiver; and a receiver device corresponding to the receiver, the receiver device generates a communication preference, - wherein the transmitter device: - determines that a user initiates communication with the receiver through a first communication medium; and - notifies the user of the communication preference in response to the first communication medium not meeting the communication preference. System after Claim 16 wherein the transmitter device transmits a first communication through the first communication medium in response to the first communication medium the communication preference, wherein the communication preference is based on one or more of: an activity of the recipient, a location of the recipient, a time of day, a website visited by the receiver, and an active application of the receiving device. System after Claim 16 wherein the transmitter device converts a first communication made using the first communication medium into a second communication using a second communication medium in response to the first communication medium not meeting the communication preference. System after Claim 16 wherein notifying the user of the communication preference comprises the transmitter device: identifying a first type of media of the first communication medium and one or more types of media of the communication preference; - determines whether the first media type corresponds to the one or more preferred media types; completing communication over the first medium in response to the first type of media corresponding to the one or more preferred types of media; and - prompting the user to switch to a second communication medium in response to the first media type not corresponding to the one or more preferred media types, the second media type corresponding to the one or more preferred media types. System after Claim 16 wherein notifying the user of the communication preference includes the transmitter device: - identifying an available communication application that corresponds to the communication preference; and providing a connection to the available communication application.

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